An Illinois DUI conviction can lead to jail time, fines, probation, and a suspended license, but those consequences are merely the beginning of the nightmare. There are indirect DUI effects that can damage your life for years. Fortunately, an experienced Illinois DUI defense attorney can aggressively defend your rights and fight for the best case outcome.
Employment Opportunities Vanish
The first significant collateral effect of an Illinois DUI conviction is employment problems. Most employers perform criminal background checks. A DUI conviction will likely appear on your permanent record, which may lead to an employer being reluctant to hire you.
DUI stigma can be challenging if you work in commercial transportation or delivery services. In these industries, a DUI conviction can disqualify you. If you are already employed, an Illinois drunk driving conviction may violate your employment contract, especially if driving is part of your job duties. Additionally, licensed professionals, such as teachers, attorneys, or physicians, may be disciplined or suspended from critical regulatory bodies like the Illinois State Medical Board.